KEY POINTS
- A Grade 8 learner at Hoërskool Die Burger allegedly stabbed a teacher during a classroom dispute, marking the second violent incident at the school in two weeks.
- The Gauteng Department of Education and police are investigating, while parents and activists demand stronger safety measures in schools.
- Experts link the surge in school violence to systemic issues like poor mental health support and socioeconomic pressures, calling for long-term interventions.
In a shocking incident that has sent tremors through the quiet suburb of Bergbron, a Grade 8 learner at Hoërskool Die Burger allegedly stabbed a teacher during a heated classroom altercation on Wednesday, April 9.
The attack, which left the teacher bleeding and in need of urgent medical attention, has reignited fears over the deteriorating safety conditions in South African schools.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as students screamed for help while the injured teacher was rushed out of the classroom. “It happened so fast—one moment they were arguing, the next, the teacher was clutching his side, covered in blood,” recounted a shaken student who wished to remain anonymous.
A pattern of violence: Second attack in two weeks
This stabbing marks the second violent incident at Hoërskool Die Burger in just two weeks, following an assault by a Grade 12 learner on another educator.
According to TheCitizen, the recurrence of such brutality has left parents questioning whether enough is being done to protect both staff and pupils.
Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, confirmed that the injured teacher was stabilized on-site before being transported to a nearby hospital. “The department is deeply concerned by this trend of violence and is working closely with law enforcement to ensure justice is served,” Mabona stated. He added that the School Governing Body (SGB) would launch its own probe into the incident, with possible disciplinary actions pending.
Meanwhile, panic spread among parents, many of whom rushed to the school to collect their children early. “How can we send our kids to a place where even teachers aren’t safe?” demanded one distraught mother outside the school gates.
Police have taken the minor suspect into custody, though details about the motive remain unclear. Authorities have assured the public that a full investigation is underway, including an assessment of the school’s security protocols.
